The City of Miramichi, named after the river, was formed through the
amalgamation of five municipalities and several rural areas in 1995. Before
the amalgamation, the main city in the area was known as Newcastle.

According to a city clerk in June 2005, the logo depicted on the flag was
adopted shortly after the amalgamation. The symbolism of the logo is as
follows, according to documentation handed out at city hall:

A reminder of Miramichi tradition and symbolizing new business
opportunities here, the logo is visually modern while respecting the past.
Like an angler's cast, the flowing line is a blue stylized 'M'. The river
has always been a trade artery. By river, highway, electronic network or
satellite beam, the Miramichi will continue to transport goods and
information around the world. The circular element represents a computer
disk and the globe, suggesting technology and global trade. The beams
radiate outward to world markets. The sun is represented to show the energy
and optimism in a growing tourism industry and the ship is symbolic of the
proud history of shipbuilding. Green pays tribute to the importance of the
forestry industry; gold symbolizes opportunity and energy; blue represents
the river.